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For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
How to Make Chocolate Brioche Donuts
Step 1: Make the Brioche Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and stir to dissolve. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the dough comes together. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece to incorporate before adding more. Continue kneading for another 5-7 minutes until the dough is soft, shiny, and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to work its magic, creating that airy, fluffy texture that brioche is known for.
Step 3: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out the donuts, or use two round cutters of different sizes (a larger one for the outer ring and a smaller one for the hole in the center).
Place the shaped donuts and holes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up.
Step 4: Fry the Donuts
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Glaze
While the donuts are cooling, make the chocolate glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chopped chocolate, butter, and corn syrup (if using). Stir until everything is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, if desired.
Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip each one into the chocolate glaze, making sure the entire top is coated. Allow any excess glaze to drip off before placing the donuts on a cooling rack. The glaze will set as it cools, creating a smooth, shiny finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the glaze has set, your Chocolate Brioche Donuts are ready to serve! They are best enjoyed fresh, still slightly warm, with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Why These Chocolate Brioche Donuts are So Special
What sets Chocolate Brioche Donuts apart from regular donuts is the rich, buttery dough. Brioche is a special type of yeasted dough known for its soft, pillowy texture and slightly sweet, buttery flavor. The process of making brioche dough involves incorporating butter gradually, which creates layers of air and results in a light, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
The chocolate glaze is the perfect finishing touch—smooth, shiny, and perfectly sweet. As it cools, the glaze hardens slightly, giving the donuts a glossy, crisp outer shell that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Brioche Donuts
- Don’t Rush the Rise: The dough needs to rise properly to develop that light, airy texture. Be patient and give the dough time to rise fully in both stages.
- Use Room Temperature Butter: When adding the butter to the dough, make sure it’s soft, not melted. This allows it to incorporate smoothly into the dough without weighing it down.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the donuts will burn on the outside before cooking through on the inside.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt on top of the glaze for a salted chocolate version, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fun twist.
How to Serve Chocolate Brioche Donuts
Chocolate Brioche Donuts are versatile and can be served in various settings:
- For Breakfast or Brunch: These donuts make the perfect decadent treat to serve with coffee or fresh fruit.
- As a Dessert: They’re an excellent dessert option for a dinner party or special occasion. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
- As a Gift: Homemade donuts are always a hit as a thoughtful gift. Package them in a cute box with a ribbon for a special homemade touch.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Brioche Donuts are the perfect combination of indulgence and sophistication. The rich, buttery dough and glossy chocolate glaze make these donuts a real treat that will leave you and your guests craving more. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, these donuts are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little luxury—your taste buds will thank you!
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